Chapter 25
"Christmas Eve Aboard the 'Angel'" or "Ed's Strange Adventure"
Spike Steigel had been listening in on his comlink. "Hai, just use the PA intercom mikes. Tell Zoe or Leila oro you want and they'll replicate it for you. Spike, Jett, Faye, I've got an extra replicator on board. If you want it you're more than welcome to it. Call it a Kurisumasu present if you like. Peace on Terra, goodwill towards men and all that stuff, you know." Trilled Kei 1. 'WE KNOW ALL ABOUT THAT HOLIDAY, Kei. Don't forget that Faye and Ed both hail from Terra. Both of them can probably tell you all about the Kurisumasu dentos (traditions) down there. Say Faye, where the oni is Ed? Oh, she's playing with the 'Angel' mainframe. Well as long as she's quiet I guess it's OK. Kei?" All Spike could hear were the sounds of running bootsteps and excessive cursing coming over his comlink. "Hey Yuri, leave the comm. To Mar and get your ass down to Level 5 pronto! Ed's playing around in the mainframe of our computer systems!" trilled Kei 1. ""She's doing oro? OK Kei, I'll get Faye and grab her! Where will you be?" trilled Yuri 1. "I'm roasting in this morphed winter stuff! I'm going to my quarters to change. Then I'll check in with our chefs. How soon until we reach the 'Bebop'? asked Kei 1. Yuri 1 had reached Faye's room and was pounding on her door. We should be getting there right after dinner assuming we'll be eating at (she glanced at her wrist chromo quickly) roku (six). Go ahead and change now Kei and I'll see you later. Yuri out." Faye had just appeared in her doorway wearing an aoishi silk kimono over her matching pajamas. On her feet were a pair of white mules (slippers). "Yuri? Oro do you want? When's dinner?" she asked, yawning. "Dinner's at roku (six) Faye. We've got a real big problem first though. Ed's playing around in the mainframe of our computer system! Come on, we've got to get her out of there now!" cried Yuri 1. "Is that all? Relax honey, Ed's a frigging genius. She knows more about computers than anyone I know! She never goes anywhere without 'Tomato', that's the name of her computer. Did you notice those strange goggles she's always wearing? They're monitor screens for 'Tomato'. Don't worry love, she won't break anything. She might even kick your systems up a notch or two!" Faye yawned again and headed back inside. But Yuri 1 grabbed her arm and pulled her down the hallway. "Kei goes ballistic if anybody touches those shimatta things! I'm the only person she EVER lets touch them and they're even a bit over my head too! Come on!" she yelled as they jumped onto the turbolift. "Level go (five), Mainframe room stat." Ordered Yuri 1. "Oro is your code level? Give sign and countersign onegai." Responded the lift's computer control. "Code Level 002. Yuri 62, Orion. Prey." Answered Yuri 1. "Access approved. Complying with request." Control responded. Yuri 1 faced Faye as the lift began to ascend. "See oro I mean? She's baka over that system of hers!" she said. They exited the lift and hurried to a portal labeled "Mainframe-No Entry Without Authorization". Yuri 1 swiped the edge of a plasticene card through a track next to the doorway and said clearly "Code Level 002. Authorization Yuri 62, Nebulae. Daedalus." She yanked on the door handle but the door wouldn't budge! Yuri 1 repeated the process a few more times with the same results each time. "Computer override. Authorization Yuri 62. Comply." She commanded. "Override impossible. Codes have been changed and reset." Responded the portal access control. "Override. Authorization Yuri 62." She repeated firmly. "Cannot comply. Codes altered." It replied. Yuri 1 was irritated and trilled Kei 1 via her comlink. "Kei, why the jigoku did you change the codes for the mainframe room and oro are the new ones?" she demanded. Kei 1 shot back with "Oro? Yuri, have you been smoking dilythium or something? I ain't changed any frigging codes in a month!" answered Kei 1. "Well the computer that controls the door says that somebody did and we can't get in there!" trilled Yuri 1. A new voice trilled into this tirade of accusations.
Laughing, it said "Kei Kei not change codes, Ed change codes! Yuri lady and Faye faye want come in?" trilled Ed. "Ed? Where did you get a comlink? You open this door right now! Then you WILL change those codes back to their original settings! Do you understand me young lady? Now do it!" Faye Valentine was beside herself with fury. "OK, Ed let Yuri lady and Faye Faye in." trilled Ed. The lock clicked and the door shot open. The tro-con and the 'cowgirl' hurried inside. Ed was kneeling on the floor in front of a huge bank of dials, switches and other stuff which even Yuri 1 was at a loss to understand. Faye grabbed Ed (who was now clad in a dark aoishi pullover top, one of Kome's pink jumpsuits and short grey ankle boots). 'Tomato' was beside the kid and the goggles covered her aizu. She pushed up the latter and appraised Faye for a moment. "Faye Faye wear pretty dress but forget to take off nighty-nights! Hi Yuri lady!" said Ed giggling. Yuri 1 was busily engaged using her own laptop to check the systems for any damages Ed might have done to them. She soon discovered that the efficiency level had increased to 75 percent in all systems! "Oro do you mean Ed? I'm not wearing a dress." Replied a puzzled faye. Yuri 1 glanced up. "Oh, she must be talking about your bath kimono and you're still in your jimmies, pajamas." Supplied Yuri 1. "Oro?" Faye suddenly became conscious of her lack of proper attire! "I can't believe that I've been wandering all over this shimatta ship only half-dressed! Ed, have you reset those codes yet?" she asked. "There, all done Faye Faye!" replied Ed. "Good, let's go back down to our rooms so I can get dressed!" said Faye. Yuri 1 finished her inspection and immediately noticed oro Ed had on! "And put Ed in something of mine or Kei's. That's Kome's jumpsuit and if she sees Ed in it, she'll have a fit!" said Yuri 1 escorting both 'cowgirls' into the hallway. The door clicked behind them and Yuri 1 trilled Kei 1. "We got Ed out of the mainframe room and everything is fine now. Our systems' efficiency is up 75 percent in ALL sectors! Don't you usually only manage about 40 percent?" she asked. Kei 1 trilled back. "75 percent? You're positive? Guess Ed is a genius after all! I'm on my way to the rec room now. Hope Zoe and Leila still like replicating." She said. Spike Steigel broke in on their conversation via his own comlink. "Hurray! Good food for a change! I can't wait! After having to eat that slop that Jett cooks for the last five months-" he trilled. "Hey! I heard that Spike!" yelled Jett. "Sorry Jett. See you guys at roku (six), bye." Spike broke off his connection. Yuri 1, Ed and Faye had reached the lifts on Level go (five) once again. The trio rode back down to Level 3. After dropping off the two 'cowgirls' Yuri 1 said "Don't forget that dinner is at six guys. Faye, I know that Kei said she was 'thrilled' with the new efficiency of our computers but I'd still keep Ed away from there and onegai don't let her get near the core of the warp drive either. Oh, that reminds me, gomen (excuse me) me for a minute." Yuri 1 picked up the intercom mike off the wall and keyed it.
"Attention everyone onegai! Dinner will be served in the dining hall which is next to the rec room at roku (six). Onegai call Zoe or Leila before then and tell them oro you'd like for dinner so they can replicate it in time for the meal. There are PA system intercom mikes located all over the ship and in most of the living quarters and staterooms. Just pick one up, key it and use it. After dinner we will all gather in the 'parlor' (rec room renamed for the holidays) for this evening's entertainment for Kurisumasu- ibu. At that time we will finish trimming the tree. You KNOW who will have the honor of placing the top ornament on it. Legato and Spike have some great games lined up for us all. Relax 'Cowboy', I'm talking about the other Spike! The Doctors will be reading to us from ni (two) famous Terran books. One is called 'A Visit From Seija (Saint) Nicholas" and will be read by Leila's Doctor (Doctor 4). The other one's titled 'A Kurisumasu (Christmas) Carol' and will be read by Zoe and Jamie's Doctor (Doctor 2). I have been asked to lead the caroling singalong. Evidently some people recognize true talent when they hear it! Are you listening Kei? We'll have all kinds of goodies. Now I must apologize to both Kome and Marlene. I know that one of the oldest dentos (traditions) on Terra is the opening of the gifts on Kurisumasu Yobi (Day), however, because of our mission's schedule Kei and I have decided to have that ceremony tonight instead. Both chiefs (Poporo and Gustav) agreed that this arrangement was the best decision under the circumstances. Incidentally, be sure to check out how nicely the living areas of the ship have been decorated. A big domo arigato must go to our guests and especially to our chiefs. Chief Gustav did the viewing windows all by himself! And Chief Poporo and Tro-con Riff (Keitarou) made the punch and the eggnog for us. And hazu, this whole idea to have Kurisumasu celebrated on this starship was our own Kei O'Halloran's. I think that she deserves a lot of credit for putting up with us and all the difficulties that we have been forced to endure since this mission began. Kome has received a communiqué from TSC Garner and it seems that 'Project Kronos' will be back up and running on January second. Gomen to our guests who are affected and were looking forward to returing to their own space/times before New Year's but hey, if we can put together a Kurisumasu shindig for our Terran folks we sure as jigoku should be able to throw a bash for New Year's eh? I'm sure that dear Kei will approve it. Oh, I almost forgot this one. Both Mr. Garner and Mr. Gooley sent us their gratitude for completing our mission so promptly. They also extend to us best wishes for the holidays. And Spike, Jett, Faye, Ed- Mr. Garner has assured me that even though you have turned 'Black Ghost' over to our custody (3WA-UG), you will still receive the full bounty money for his capture. All of the 3WA personnel aboard will receive a big fat bonus for participating in his apprehension. Now I'd just like to say how much that we have enjoyed having all of you aboard for this most important of holidays. You have all made Kome Sawaguchi and Marlene Angel very happy indeed. So, ja ne for now and I'll see you all at dinner later." Yuri 1 replaced the mike, tousled Ed's unruly mane took her departure. Stepping aboard the turbolift she was still musing and thinking about all that was left for her to do when the lift control's voice broke in on her thoughts. "Onegai stae your destination." It requested. "Bridge onegai." She replied politely. Stepping off the lift and across the hallway to the bridge portals, she was greeted by two smiling faces from inside. She beamed at both of her charges. "Arigato a whole lot, Miss D., I mean Yuri." Said Kome. "Hai Yuri, domo arigato, you really made our day with that speech." Agreed Marlene Angel. "I didn't do anything girls. Most of it was Kei's idea just like I said." Replied Yuri 1, blushing. "Any messages Kome?" she asked to change the subject. "Mr. Black, Jett, has decided that getting back to his ship could wait. He said that the main priority was getting our prisoner safely to Mars as soon as possible. So--" Kome trailed off looking down at her feet. "We realized that he was right so we called Kei to get her permission to change course back to Mars but she didn't answer our hails. We figured she was asleep and not wanting to disturb her so knowing that you and she would probably approve anyway we decided to change course and head back to Mars. I take full responsibility for that decision Yuri." Said Marlene boldly. "You should have called me girls when you couldn't raise Kei, however, no harm done. I'm sure Kei wants nothing more than to be rid of that pest stat so she would've said OK. Now let's have some music. How far from Mars are we now anyway? Oro's our speed?" asked their co-pilot, checking gauges and making corrections to some variations in the readings. "We are six and a half hours from Mars. Our speed is at Warp 7.6 but I recommend decreasing it to Warp 4.8 because by approaching Mars on this heading we will be flying through the 'Jonnz Jonnz' asteroid belt and at our present speed maneuverability will be almost impossible. And before you ask we have to be on this heading to reach Moravian City." Answered her navigator. Yuri 1 considered her options of which she had shi (four) to choose from.
Call Kei and request instructions. That was definitely out! Call the chiefs. No way! Try and steer at our present speed. Nai, that'd be suicidal! Comply with Marlene's suggestion and decrease speed.
"Mar, we are presently six and a half hours from Mars at Warp 7.6. How
much longer will the trip take at Warp 4.8?" she asked. Marlene did some
rapid calculations with Nammo. "Twelve and a quarter hours Yuri." She
replied. "OK make it so and decrease our speed to Warp 4.8. How soon
until we reach that asteroid field?" she asked. "Roger that and
decreasing speed to 4.8. Our ETA to 'Jonnz Jonnz' asteroid belt is eleven
hours then factor in about fifteen or twenty minutes more to traverse
it." Replied Marlene. Yuri 1 pursed her lips in thought. "Fine. Mugghi,
you'll take the helm. Keep us on this heading at the present speed. Trill
us just before we reach the belt, understand? Nammo will continue to
monitor all of the ship's systems." Yuri 1 turned to her two trainees.
Mugghi and Nammo can handle this. You two (she glanced at her wrist
chromo) get ready for dinner. It's after go (five) now and dinner's at
roku (six). Have you called in with your dinner requests yet?" asked Yuri
1. We both asked Zoe to prepare a traditional Kurisumasu-ibu meal- turkey
with all the trimmings, mashed potatoes, candied yams, peas, carrots,
stuffing, gravy, coffee, pumpkin and mince pies, plum pudding and wine."
They answered together. Yuri 1 smiled and said "That sounds good. I think
I'll order that too." An unexpected voice answered them from the doorway.
"That is exactly oro everyone will behaving for tonight's dinner. I said
that we were having a traditional Kurisumasu feast just like on old Terra
and Kami shimatta that's oro we're having!" said Kei 1, resplendent in
(of all things!) a fiery crimson dinner gown trimmed in black, green
headband and black pumps with spiked heels. "Zoe said that on Terra
ladies always wear dinner gowns and high heels for special occasions.
Don't snicker Yuri! Pay attention instead. I have an announcement to
make. Kei 1 keyed the PA system's mike and spoke. "Attention folks! Kei
here. To make our tomos from Terra happy I have decided that Zoe and
Leila will prepare only one meal for us all tonight, a traditional turkey
dinner with all the fixings as they call it. The menu has been posted to
your viewing screens. And we will all dress for dinner this evening. The
gentlemen will wear jackets and ties while the ladies will wear dresses!
If I can wear one you all can! The two TARDISes have plenty of stuff in
their wardrobe rooms. In eleven hours or so the ride will get a bit
bumpy. That's when we reach 'Jonnz Jonnz', an asteroid belt around Mars.
However, we have a very capable flight crew and I anticipate no undue
difficulties in traversing it. An hour after that we reach Mars and can
offload our prisoner. Until then enjoy yourselves. Meri Kurisumasu to all
of you. See you at dinner which will be served at roku (six) sharp. Ja
Mata."
Three shocked expressions greeted her words. "Kei in a dress, oro next?"
giggled Yuri 1. "I don't like dresses!" said Kome. "Gomen but like I said
ALL ladies will wear dresses and ALL gentlemen will wear jackets and
ties! No exceptions and no arguments either!" said Kei 1, her aizu
twinkling. She glanced at her flight crew. "Mugghi has the helm so you
three scoot! Get ready for dinner and I will see you at six. I must see
to the seating arrangements." Kei 1 ushered the three bewildered tro-cons
off the bridge and to the turbolift stations. "Oro do you suppose got
into her?" whispered Kome to Yuri 1 and Marlene. "Kurisumasu maybe?"
whispered Marlene, grinning.
Half way to the 'parlor' (rec room) Kei 1 remembered their other guest in
sick bay- Han Solo! "Crap!", she thought, "I'd better see how he is."
Aloud she spoke to the turbolift control. "Belay that last order. Take me
to sick bay on Level 3 stat." The control replied with "Complying."
Almost before the lift had stopped moving Kei 1 was out of it and racing
down the corridor to sick bay. Just as she opened the door the patient
stirred on his bunk, then he groaned. "Did anybody get the number of the
freighter that hit me? Or have I died and gone to Heaven?" Han Solo could
not believe his own aizu! A red-haired beauty wearing a gown that matched
her hair, in heels and sporting a headband that matched her impish green
aizu was facing him! She was staring directly into his own aizu
unflinching. "Konnichi wa Han and how are you feeling now? I'm afraid
that you weren't hit by any freighter, just my hard right foot! Gomen for
that tomo but you deserved it! You called me a dumb broad and said that
no female could take you on and best you in a fight! I believe that
constitutes a challenge and Kei O'Halloran NEVER backs down from a
challenge! But Han, can we maybe start over again and be tomos this
time?" asked Kei 1, sticking out her gloved hand to him. "Sure Kei. No
hard feelings then?" asked Han Solo, shaking the proffered hand. "None at
all Han! Welcome aboard the 'Lovely Angel 2'. I'd better tell you oro's
been happening since I sent you to beddy-bye. First your piracy problems
are over but more about that in a minute. We have a prisoner aboard named
'Black Ghost' who we are returning to a Martian prison. He escaped
enroute from 'Cybytron'. We also have a team of 'cowboys', bounty hunters
aboard and one of them has a tomo at 'ISSP' and from him he discovered
that that gang of pirates who'd been preying on space freighters had been
arrested. As tonight is Kurisumasu-ibu (Christmas Eve) on Terra and since
we have at least five people aboard who hail from Terra we are having a
celebration tonight in our 'parlor'. We'd all be delighted if you'd join
us Han." Kei 1 waited for him to give his answer. "Sure, sounds like fun
Kei. But only if you'll allow me to escort you and remember you owe me,
Captain!" joked Han. "I would be honored to have you as my escort,
Captain Solo, but you will have to dress for dinner. Don't worry, the
Doctors will fix you up with something nice. By the way, did I mention
that we are enroute to Mars to drop off our prisoner?" she said. "Mars?
Where exactly?" asked Han anxiously. "Moravian City, why?" she asked with
a puzzled expression.
"Because to reach Moravian City you will have to traverse the 'Jonzz
Jonzz' asteroid belt, that's why! Do you have anyone on board who has
ever been through it before Kei? It's very tricky!" asked Han worriedly.
"Nai, but we've piloted through asteroids before Han." Replied Kei 1.
"Not like this one you haven't! One mistake and you're history! Onegai
let me pilot you through it. I've done it a hundred times before!"
pleaded Han. "It's still eleven hours away Han but you can advise us when
we get there if you want." Assured Kei 1. "Now sit down. I want Yuri to
give you the onceover before you leave sick bay. OK Han?" Han nodded and
Kei 1 trilled her comlink for Yuri. "Yuri, gomen for disturbing you but
this will only take a few minutes. Han's awake. Can you come to sick bay
and check him out before we go down to dinner? Oro? You're on your way?
Great, I owe you pal!"
A stunning girl with waist length violet hair entered the room. She was a
vision in white- white dinner gown, white high heels, white opera gloves
and a small tiara. Encircling her lovely neck was a neclace of silver
from which was suspended an amber amulet. "Konnichi wa Mr. Solo, I'm
Yuri." She picked up a medical tricorder and ran it over Han's body
checking the readouts carefully. "You seem to have recovered quite
quickly Mr. Solo. You will have a sore head for a bit longer though.
That's the usual expected result from one of Kei's kicks! Com eon, let's
join the others." Laughed Yuri 1. The trio linked arms with Han in the
center and strolled to the lifts. "Parlor." Said Kei 1 as soon as they
were all on board the car. "Say, you did say that you had some 'cowboys'
aboard, didn't you? Is one of them a tall, skinny guy named Spike
Steigel?" asked Han. Both girls nodded. "I was going to send Jett, Spike
and Anton for the next watch to relieve Miroku, Legato and Jamie but if
you're sure you're up to it Han how about I replace Anton with you? That
way you and Spike can catch up on old times, OK?" asked Kei 1. "Fine with
me Kei." Replied han. Kei 1 trilled Kome. "Kome, onegai tell Legato,
Spike Miroku and Jamie that they may go to dinner at nana (seven). Their
replacements will be Jett, Spike Steigel and Han Solo. Relay that message
to them as soon as possible, got it?" trilled Kei 1. "Roger willco Kei.
Kome out." She trilled back. After trilling back to Kei 1, Kome picked up
the PA mike in the suite that she was sharing with Yuri 1. She keyed it
up and called Legato who was on guard duty at the brig. "Kome to Legato,
onegai respond." She requested. Legato answered her summons immediately.
"Legato to Kome. I read you, go ahead, over." He replied. "Legato, your
team will be replaced in one hour by Jett and Spike, the 'cowboys' and by
Han Solo, the space trader. Onegai remain there until you are relieved.
Anything to report? Over." She asked. "Roger Kome. We'll stay here until
relieved. All quiet here, Legato out." He replied. Kome replaced the mike
and went into her own room to change for dinner. Since she hated gowns
and dresses, Kome had not brought any along on the trip. But Yuri had
told both she and Mar to borrow whatever they needed from her closet. So
after peeling off her Eagles' jersey and shedding her jeans, she kicked
off her boots and pulled off her socks. Tossing off her halter top and
stepping out of her briefs, Kome quickly showered, dried off in the
drying alcove and donned one of the ship's bath kimonos. Running into
Yuri's room she chose a lovely pink dinner gown, white silk pantyhose, a
strapless brassiere, pink high heeled sandals and matching opera gloves.
Leaving their suite five minutes later Kome looked quite elegant and very
much a lady. She felt like shit! "Shimatta, why had Mar made such a big
deal out of Kurisumasu anyway? Her big mouth had started all this crap!
An early evening now seemed quite out of the question. Oh well just grin
and bear it." She thought to herself. The door to Kei's suite opened and
a vision in sky aoishi emerged. Marlene had bound a complementing
headband in light azure sround her blonde locks. It went with her light
aoishi gown perfectly. She also wore elbow length matching opera gloves.
Her stockings and heels were also the same tint along with her small
evening bag which she clutched in her right hand. The two trainees
greeted each other while appraising each other's attire. "Kome, you look
stunning! I hope that you're feeling a little better." Said Marlene.
"Arigato Mar, you're radiant! But why the bag? Faye's the only other
female on board who's got one." Replied Kome. Marlene smiled. "I was told
that ladies always have to carry a purse. I realize that in our
profession it's impractical. However, on special occasions I see no
reason to break with dentos (tradition)." She explained. "Well, let's get
it over with Mar." groaned Kome, hopping onto the turbolift. Marlene
followed her and soon they were in the 'parlor'. Yuri 2 was wearing
yellow, both Keis were in red, Leila wore black, Zoe had chosen violet
and Faye had opted for lilac. Try as they might no gown could be found
small enough for the children so they were in their old reliable
schoolgirl uniforms. Kagome had lent one to both Rin and Ed. Most of the
men had opted for dark suits with dark ties except for the Doctors who
were apparently playing 'I can dress weirder than you' with each other.
Doctor 2 had gone with the look of the 1860's wearing a black frock coat
and white cravat along with a vest and pin-striped morning trousers in
grey. Doctor 4 had chosen for the occasion a black tuxedo with white bow
tie, a high topped evening hat, gloves and a cane! Kei 1 had absolutely
put her foot down when Yuri 1 had suggested dressing up the Mugghis.
"Nai, no Fing way, you airhead! This is MY ship and I make the rules,
got it!" Kei 1 had stormed at her. Yuri 1 had meekly acquiesced to her
demands. Ed was circulating around the room with a tray of drinks. Kei 1
had warned Don Poporo in no uncertain terms oro she would do to him if he
passed out tonight! She then struck a small gong and announced dinner.
They all trooped into the storage area adjoining the rec room which had
been converted into a dining hall. After a sumptious feast (Inu Yasha had
for once not started a food fight!) they had all returned to the
'parlor'.
The first item on Yuri 1's agenda was finishing up the tree. She and Zoe
had each replicated an illuminated enjeru (angel) for the top. Zoe's
resembled Marlene while Yuri's was patterned after Kome. They handed them
out to the two trainees who insisted that Kei 1 must place them on the
tree's topmost branch. Kei 1 did so, wiping a tear from her lovely green
aizu. "Crying Kei?" asked Yuri 1 with an impish grin. " 'Course not! Just
got a little pine dust in my aizu was all!" insisted Kei 1 gruffly. Next
up was 'Caroling Along with Yuri' which lasted out the rest of the first
two hours. Quietly, the two 'cowboys' and Han Solo had left to relieve
the guard team of Legato, Spike Miroku and Jamie. (Since the security
guard chief was already in a dark suit and since Jamie absolutely refused
to remove his kilt and replace it with 'breeks or bleeks' as he called
trousers, the only one who had to change was Legato. He did so quickly
and accompanied the other two to the parlor). After a hasty dinner and a
very boring session of listening to the Doctors' renderings of 'A Visit
from Seija (Saint) Nicholas' and 'A Kurisumasu Carol', it was game time.
Legato and Spike Miroku supervised at 'Trivial Pursuit', 'Charades',
'Hide the Slipper' and 'Murder'.
After that they all exchanged gifts (that is to say that Yuri 1 played
'Old Seija Nick' and handed out the presents which she had secretly
replicated) until the chromo struck the hour of eleven. Then Kei 1
reluctantly arose and announced that it was time to call it a night. "My
flight crew has to be up at shi (four) AM ashita (tomorrow) morning to
steer us a clear path through the 'Jonnz Jonnz' asteroid belt and I need
all of them bright aizu'd and bushy tailed so I'm afraid it's lights out
for them I'm afraid. But before they go, a toast. Meri Kurisumasu and
good wishes to all of you and to all a good night." They touched glasses
with each other and drank. Faye gently lifted Ed who had fallen fast
asleep on the floor and had been using her favorite pillow (Ein) as a
headrest. They all exchanged good nights and toddled off to bed. After
assuring Kei 1 that all was well the watch group on the brig was taking
turns catnapping. Kei 1 went back to her room and changed back into
sweats and jogging shoes before returning to the bridge. She had already
dismissed and sent to bed an exhausted Yuri and two beaming trainees.
Now that she had the time to put her feet up and relax, she decided to
finish reading that holonovel of Marlene's about the old miser (Scrooge).
Then she remembered oro had happened the last time she'd read the
shimatta thing at night! "I can't stand to have another one of those
shimatta nightmares!" she thought. Instead of that she decided to read
some fanfiction off the intergalactic net. After alternating between
reading and dozing off for about an hour or so, Kei 1 drifted into a deep
slumber and began to dream!(Hoist the storm warnings guys!!)!
END OF CHAPTER 25. Chapter 26 "Kei's Troubled Nights II" or "Have You
Seen Our Trainees?"
Will follow soon. Ja Mata.
"Christmas Eve Aboard the 'Angel'" or "Ed's Strange Adventure"
Spike Steigel had been listening in on his comlink. "Hai, just use the PA intercom mikes. Tell Zoe or Leila oro you want and they'll replicate it for you. Spike, Jett, Faye, I've got an extra replicator on board. If you want it you're more than welcome to it. Call it a Kurisumasu present if you like. Peace on Terra, goodwill towards men and all that stuff, you know." Trilled Kei 1. 'WE KNOW ALL ABOUT THAT HOLIDAY, Kei. Don't forget that Faye and Ed both hail from Terra. Both of them can probably tell you all about the Kurisumasu dentos (traditions) down there. Say Faye, where the oni is Ed? Oh, she's playing with the 'Angel' mainframe. Well as long as she's quiet I guess it's OK. Kei?" All Spike could hear were the sounds of running bootsteps and excessive cursing coming over his comlink. "Hey Yuri, leave the comm. To Mar and get your ass down to Level 5 pronto! Ed's playing around in the mainframe of our computer systems!" trilled Kei 1. ""She's doing oro? OK Kei, I'll get Faye and grab her! Where will you be?" trilled Yuri 1. "I'm roasting in this morphed winter stuff! I'm going to my quarters to change. Then I'll check in with our chefs. How soon until we reach the 'Bebop'? asked Kei 1. Yuri 1 had reached Faye's room and was pounding on her door. We should be getting there right after dinner assuming we'll be eating at (she glanced at her wrist chromo quickly) roku (six). Go ahead and change now Kei and I'll see you later. Yuri out." Faye had just appeared in her doorway wearing an aoishi silk kimono over her matching pajamas. On her feet were a pair of white mules (slippers). "Yuri? Oro do you want? When's dinner?" she asked, yawning. "Dinner's at roku (six) Faye. We've got a real big problem first though. Ed's playing around in the mainframe of our computer system! Come on, we've got to get her out of there now!" cried Yuri 1. "Is that all? Relax honey, Ed's a frigging genius. She knows more about computers than anyone I know! She never goes anywhere without 'Tomato', that's the name of her computer. Did you notice those strange goggles she's always wearing? They're monitor screens for 'Tomato'. Don't worry love, she won't break anything. She might even kick your systems up a notch or two!" Faye yawned again and headed back inside. But Yuri 1 grabbed her arm and pulled her down the hallway. "Kei goes ballistic if anybody touches those shimatta things! I'm the only person she EVER lets touch them and they're even a bit over my head too! Come on!" she yelled as they jumped onto the turbolift. "Level go (five), Mainframe room stat." Ordered Yuri 1. "Oro is your code level? Give sign and countersign onegai." Responded the lift's computer control. "Code Level 002. Yuri 62, Orion. Prey." Answered Yuri 1. "Access approved. Complying with request." Control responded. Yuri 1 faced Faye as the lift began to ascend. "See oro I mean? She's baka over that system of hers!" she said. They exited the lift and hurried to a portal labeled "Mainframe-No Entry Without Authorization". Yuri 1 swiped the edge of a plasticene card through a track next to the doorway and said clearly "Code Level 002. Authorization Yuri 62, Nebulae. Daedalus." She yanked on the door handle but the door wouldn't budge! Yuri 1 repeated the process a few more times with the same results each time. "Computer override. Authorization Yuri 62. Comply." She commanded. "Override impossible. Codes have been changed and reset." Responded the portal access control. "Override. Authorization Yuri 62." She repeated firmly. "Cannot comply. Codes altered." It replied. Yuri 1 was irritated and trilled Kei 1 via her comlink. "Kei, why the jigoku did you change the codes for the mainframe room and oro are the new ones?" she demanded. Kei 1 shot back with "Oro? Yuri, have you been smoking dilythium or something? I ain't changed any frigging codes in a month!" answered Kei 1. "Well the computer that controls the door says that somebody did and we can't get in there!" trilled Yuri 1. A new voice trilled into this tirade of accusations.
Laughing, it said "Kei Kei not change codes, Ed change codes! Yuri lady and Faye faye want come in?" trilled Ed. "Ed? Where did you get a comlink? You open this door right now! Then you WILL change those codes back to their original settings! Do you understand me young lady? Now do it!" Faye Valentine was beside herself with fury. "OK, Ed let Yuri lady and Faye Faye in." trilled Ed. The lock clicked and the door shot open. The tro-con and the 'cowgirl' hurried inside. Ed was kneeling on the floor in front of a huge bank of dials, switches and other stuff which even Yuri 1 was at a loss to understand. Faye grabbed Ed (who was now clad in a dark aoishi pullover top, one of Kome's pink jumpsuits and short grey ankle boots). 'Tomato' was beside the kid and the goggles covered her aizu. She pushed up the latter and appraised Faye for a moment. "Faye Faye wear pretty dress but forget to take off nighty-nights! Hi Yuri lady!" said Ed giggling. Yuri 1 was busily engaged using her own laptop to check the systems for any damages Ed might have done to them. She soon discovered that the efficiency level had increased to 75 percent in all systems! "Oro do you mean Ed? I'm not wearing a dress." Replied a puzzled faye. Yuri 1 glanced up. "Oh, she must be talking about your bath kimono and you're still in your jimmies, pajamas." Supplied Yuri 1. "Oro?" Faye suddenly became conscious of her lack of proper attire! "I can't believe that I've been wandering all over this shimatta ship only half-dressed! Ed, have you reset those codes yet?" she asked. "There, all done Faye Faye!" replied Ed. "Good, let's go back down to our rooms so I can get dressed!" said Faye. Yuri 1 finished her inspection and immediately noticed oro Ed had on! "And put Ed in something of mine or Kei's. That's Kome's jumpsuit and if she sees Ed in it, she'll have a fit!" said Yuri 1 escorting both 'cowgirls' into the hallway. The door clicked behind them and Yuri 1 trilled Kei 1. "We got Ed out of the mainframe room and everything is fine now. Our systems' efficiency is up 75 percent in ALL sectors! Don't you usually only manage about 40 percent?" she asked. Kei 1 trilled back. "75 percent? You're positive? Guess Ed is a genius after all! I'm on my way to the rec room now. Hope Zoe and Leila still like replicating." She said. Spike Steigel broke in on their conversation via his own comlink. "Hurray! Good food for a change! I can't wait! After having to eat that slop that Jett cooks for the last five months-" he trilled. "Hey! I heard that Spike!" yelled Jett. "Sorry Jett. See you guys at roku (six), bye." Spike broke off his connection. Yuri 1, Ed and Faye had reached the lifts on Level go (five) once again. The trio rode back down to Level 3. After dropping off the two 'cowgirls' Yuri 1 said "Don't forget that dinner is at six guys. Faye, I know that Kei said she was 'thrilled' with the new efficiency of our computers but I'd still keep Ed away from there and onegai don't let her get near the core of the warp drive either. Oh, that reminds me, gomen (excuse me) me for a minute." Yuri 1 picked up the intercom mike off the wall and keyed it.
"Attention everyone onegai! Dinner will be served in the dining hall which is next to the rec room at roku (six). Onegai call Zoe or Leila before then and tell them oro you'd like for dinner so they can replicate it in time for the meal. There are PA system intercom mikes located all over the ship and in most of the living quarters and staterooms. Just pick one up, key it and use it. After dinner we will all gather in the 'parlor' (rec room renamed for the holidays) for this evening's entertainment for Kurisumasu- ibu. At that time we will finish trimming the tree. You KNOW who will have the honor of placing the top ornament on it. Legato and Spike have some great games lined up for us all. Relax 'Cowboy', I'm talking about the other Spike! The Doctors will be reading to us from ni (two) famous Terran books. One is called 'A Visit From Seija (Saint) Nicholas" and will be read by Leila's Doctor (Doctor 4). The other one's titled 'A Kurisumasu (Christmas) Carol' and will be read by Zoe and Jamie's Doctor (Doctor 2). I have been asked to lead the caroling singalong. Evidently some people recognize true talent when they hear it! Are you listening Kei? We'll have all kinds of goodies. Now I must apologize to both Kome and Marlene. I know that one of the oldest dentos (traditions) on Terra is the opening of the gifts on Kurisumasu Yobi (Day), however, because of our mission's schedule Kei and I have decided to have that ceremony tonight instead. Both chiefs (Poporo and Gustav) agreed that this arrangement was the best decision under the circumstances. Incidentally, be sure to check out how nicely the living areas of the ship have been decorated. A big domo arigato must go to our guests and especially to our chiefs. Chief Gustav did the viewing windows all by himself! And Chief Poporo and Tro-con Riff (Keitarou) made the punch and the eggnog for us. And hazu, this whole idea to have Kurisumasu celebrated on this starship was our own Kei O'Halloran's. I think that she deserves a lot of credit for putting up with us and all the difficulties that we have been forced to endure since this mission began. Kome has received a communiqué from TSC Garner and it seems that 'Project Kronos' will be back up and running on January second. Gomen to our guests who are affected and were looking forward to returing to their own space/times before New Year's but hey, if we can put together a Kurisumasu shindig for our Terran folks we sure as jigoku should be able to throw a bash for New Year's eh? I'm sure that dear Kei will approve it. Oh, I almost forgot this one. Both Mr. Garner and Mr. Gooley sent us their gratitude for completing our mission so promptly. They also extend to us best wishes for the holidays. And Spike, Jett, Faye, Ed- Mr. Garner has assured me that even though you have turned 'Black Ghost' over to our custody (3WA-UG), you will still receive the full bounty money for his capture. All of the 3WA personnel aboard will receive a big fat bonus for participating in his apprehension. Now I'd just like to say how much that we have enjoyed having all of you aboard for this most important of holidays. You have all made Kome Sawaguchi and Marlene Angel very happy indeed. So, ja ne for now and I'll see you all at dinner later." Yuri 1 replaced the mike, tousled Ed's unruly mane took her departure. Stepping aboard the turbolift she was still musing and thinking about all that was left for her to do when the lift control's voice broke in on her thoughts. "Onegai stae your destination." It requested. "Bridge onegai." She replied politely. Stepping off the lift and across the hallway to the bridge portals, she was greeted by two smiling faces from inside. She beamed at both of her charges. "Arigato a whole lot, Miss D., I mean Yuri." Said Kome. "Hai Yuri, domo arigato, you really made our day with that speech." Agreed Marlene Angel. "I didn't do anything girls. Most of it was Kei's idea just like I said." Replied Yuri 1, blushing. "Any messages Kome?" she asked to change the subject. "Mr. Black, Jett, has decided that getting back to his ship could wait. He said that the main priority was getting our prisoner safely to Mars as soon as possible. So--" Kome trailed off looking down at her feet. "We realized that he was right so we called Kei to get her permission to change course back to Mars but she didn't answer our hails. We figured she was asleep and not wanting to disturb her so knowing that you and she would probably approve anyway we decided to change course and head back to Mars. I take full responsibility for that decision Yuri." Said Marlene boldly. "You should have called me girls when you couldn't raise Kei, however, no harm done. I'm sure Kei wants nothing more than to be rid of that pest stat so she would've said OK. Now let's have some music. How far from Mars are we now anyway? Oro's our speed?" asked their co-pilot, checking gauges and making corrections to some variations in the readings. "We are six and a half hours from Mars. Our speed is at Warp 7.6 but I recommend decreasing it to Warp 4.8 because by approaching Mars on this heading we will be flying through the 'Jonnz Jonnz' asteroid belt and at our present speed maneuverability will be almost impossible. And before you ask we have to be on this heading to reach Moravian City." Answered her navigator. Yuri 1 considered her options of which she had shi (four) to choose from.
Call Kei and request instructions. That was definitely out! Call the chiefs. No way! Try and steer at our present speed. Nai, that'd be suicidal! Comply with Marlene's suggestion and decrease speed.
"Mar, we are presently six and a half hours from Mars at Warp 7.6. How
much longer will the trip take at Warp 4.8?" she asked. Marlene did some
rapid calculations with Nammo. "Twelve and a quarter hours Yuri." She
replied. "OK make it so and decrease our speed to Warp 4.8. How soon
until we reach that asteroid field?" she asked. "Roger that and
decreasing speed to 4.8. Our ETA to 'Jonnz Jonnz' asteroid belt is eleven
hours then factor in about fifteen or twenty minutes more to traverse
it." Replied Marlene. Yuri 1 pursed her lips in thought. "Fine. Mugghi,
you'll take the helm. Keep us on this heading at the present speed. Trill
us just before we reach the belt, understand? Nammo will continue to
monitor all of the ship's systems." Yuri 1 turned to her two trainees.
Mugghi and Nammo can handle this. You two (she glanced at her wrist
chromo) get ready for dinner. It's after go (five) now and dinner's at
roku (six). Have you called in with your dinner requests yet?" asked Yuri
1. We both asked Zoe to prepare a traditional Kurisumasu-ibu meal- turkey
with all the trimmings, mashed potatoes, candied yams, peas, carrots,
stuffing, gravy, coffee, pumpkin and mince pies, plum pudding and wine."
They answered together. Yuri 1 smiled and said "That sounds good. I think
I'll order that too." An unexpected voice answered them from the doorway.
"That is exactly oro everyone will behaving for tonight's dinner. I said
that we were having a traditional Kurisumasu feast just like on old Terra
and Kami shimatta that's oro we're having!" said Kei 1, resplendent in
(of all things!) a fiery crimson dinner gown trimmed in black, green
headband and black pumps with spiked heels. "Zoe said that on Terra
ladies always wear dinner gowns and high heels for special occasions.
Don't snicker Yuri! Pay attention instead. I have an announcement to
make. Kei 1 keyed the PA system's mike and spoke. "Attention folks! Kei
here. To make our tomos from Terra happy I have decided that Zoe and
Leila will prepare only one meal for us all tonight, a traditional turkey
dinner with all the fixings as they call it. The menu has been posted to
your viewing screens. And we will all dress for dinner this evening. The
gentlemen will wear jackets and ties while the ladies will wear dresses!
If I can wear one you all can! The two TARDISes have plenty of stuff in
their wardrobe rooms. In eleven hours or so the ride will get a bit
bumpy. That's when we reach 'Jonnz Jonnz', an asteroid belt around Mars.
However, we have a very capable flight crew and I anticipate no undue
difficulties in traversing it. An hour after that we reach Mars and can
offload our prisoner. Until then enjoy yourselves. Meri Kurisumasu to all
of you. See you at dinner which will be served at roku (six) sharp. Ja
Mata."
Three shocked expressions greeted her words. "Kei in a dress, oro next?"
giggled Yuri 1. "I don't like dresses!" said Kome. "Gomen but like I said
ALL ladies will wear dresses and ALL gentlemen will wear jackets and
ties! No exceptions and no arguments either!" said Kei 1, her aizu
twinkling. She glanced at her flight crew. "Mugghi has the helm so you
three scoot! Get ready for dinner and I will see you at six. I must see
to the seating arrangements." Kei 1 ushered the three bewildered tro-cons
off the bridge and to the turbolift stations. "Oro do you suppose got
into her?" whispered Kome to Yuri 1 and Marlene. "Kurisumasu maybe?"
whispered Marlene, grinning.
Half way to the 'parlor' (rec room) Kei 1 remembered their other guest in
sick bay- Han Solo! "Crap!", she thought, "I'd better see how he is."
Aloud she spoke to the turbolift control. "Belay that last order. Take me
to sick bay on Level 3 stat." The control replied with "Complying."
Almost before the lift had stopped moving Kei 1 was out of it and racing
down the corridor to sick bay. Just as she opened the door the patient
stirred on his bunk, then he groaned. "Did anybody get the number of the
freighter that hit me? Or have I died and gone to Heaven?" Han Solo could
not believe his own aizu! A red-haired beauty wearing a gown that matched
her hair, in heels and sporting a headband that matched her impish green
aizu was facing him! She was staring directly into his own aizu
unflinching. "Konnichi wa Han and how are you feeling now? I'm afraid
that you weren't hit by any freighter, just my hard right foot! Gomen for
that tomo but you deserved it! You called me a dumb broad and said that
no female could take you on and best you in a fight! I believe that
constitutes a challenge and Kei O'Halloran NEVER backs down from a
challenge! But Han, can we maybe start over again and be tomos this
time?" asked Kei 1, sticking out her gloved hand to him. "Sure Kei. No
hard feelings then?" asked Han Solo, shaking the proffered hand. "None at
all Han! Welcome aboard the 'Lovely Angel 2'. I'd better tell you oro's
been happening since I sent you to beddy-bye. First your piracy problems
are over but more about that in a minute. We have a prisoner aboard named
'Black Ghost' who we are returning to a Martian prison. He escaped
enroute from 'Cybytron'. We also have a team of 'cowboys', bounty hunters
aboard and one of them has a tomo at 'ISSP' and from him he discovered
that that gang of pirates who'd been preying on space freighters had been
arrested. As tonight is Kurisumasu-ibu (Christmas Eve) on Terra and since
we have at least five people aboard who hail from Terra we are having a
celebration tonight in our 'parlor'. We'd all be delighted if you'd join
us Han." Kei 1 waited for him to give his answer. "Sure, sounds like fun
Kei. But only if you'll allow me to escort you and remember you owe me,
Captain!" joked Han. "I would be honored to have you as my escort,
Captain Solo, but you will have to dress for dinner. Don't worry, the
Doctors will fix you up with something nice. By the way, did I mention
that we are enroute to Mars to drop off our prisoner?" she said. "Mars?
Where exactly?" asked Han anxiously. "Moravian City, why?" she asked with
a puzzled expression.
"Because to reach Moravian City you will have to traverse the 'Jonzz
Jonzz' asteroid belt, that's why! Do you have anyone on board who has
ever been through it before Kei? It's very tricky!" asked Han worriedly.
"Nai, but we've piloted through asteroids before Han." Replied Kei 1.
"Not like this one you haven't! One mistake and you're history! Onegai
let me pilot you through it. I've done it a hundred times before!"
pleaded Han. "It's still eleven hours away Han but you can advise us when
we get there if you want." Assured Kei 1. "Now sit down. I want Yuri to
give you the onceover before you leave sick bay. OK Han?" Han nodded and
Kei 1 trilled her comlink for Yuri. "Yuri, gomen for disturbing you but
this will only take a few minutes. Han's awake. Can you come to sick bay
and check him out before we go down to dinner? Oro? You're on your way?
Great, I owe you pal!"
A stunning girl with waist length violet hair entered the room. She was a
vision in white- white dinner gown, white high heels, white opera gloves
and a small tiara. Encircling her lovely neck was a neclace of silver
from which was suspended an amber amulet. "Konnichi wa Mr. Solo, I'm
Yuri." She picked up a medical tricorder and ran it over Han's body
checking the readouts carefully. "You seem to have recovered quite
quickly Mr. Solo. You will have a sore head for a bit longer though.
That's the usual expected result from one of Kei's kicks! Com eon, let's
join the others." Laughed Yuri 1. The trio linked arms with Han in the
center and strolled to the lifts. "Parlor." Said Kei 1 as soon as they
were all on board the car. "Say, you did say that you had some 'cowboys'
aboard, didn't you? Is one of them a tall, skinny guy named Spike
Steigel?" asked Han. Both girls nodded. "I was going to send Jett, Spike
and Anton for the next watch to relieve Miroku, Legato and Jamie but if
you're sure you're up to it Han how about I replace Anton with you? That
way you and Spike can catch up on old times, OK?" asked Kei 1. "Fine with
me Kei." Replied han. Kei 1 trilled Kome. "Kome, onegai tell Legato,
Spike Miroku and Jamie that they may go to dinner at nana (seven). Their
replacements will be Jett, Spike Steigel and Han Solo. Relay that message
to them as soon as possible, got it?" trilled Kei 1. "Roger willco Kei.
Kome out." She trilled back. After trilling back to Kei 1, Kome picked up
the PA mike in the suite that she was sharing with Yuri 1. She keyed it
up and called Legato who was on guard duty at the brig. "Kome to Legato,
onegai respond." She requested. Legato answered her summons immediately.
"Legato to Kome. I read you, go ahead, over." He replied. "Legato, your
team will be replaced in one hour by Jett and Spike, the 'cowboys' and by
Han Solo, the space trader. Onegai remain there until you are relieved.
Anything to report? Over." She asked. "Roger Kome. We'll stay here until
relieved. All quiet here, Legato out." He replied. Kome replaced the mike
and went into her own room to change for dinner. Since she hated gowns
and dresses, Kome had not brought any along on the trip. But Yuri had
told both she and Mar to borrow whatever they needed from her closet. So
after peeling off her Eagles' jersey and shedding her jeans, she kicked
off her boots and pulled off her socks. Tossing off her halter top and
stepping out of her briefs, Kome quickly showered, dried off in the
drying alcove and donned one of the ship's bath kimonos. Running into
Yuri's room she chose a lovely pink dinner gown, white silk pantyhose, a
strapless brassiere, pink high heeled sandals and matching opera gloves.
Leaving their suite five minutes later Kome looked quite elegant and very
much a lady. She felt like shit! "Shimatta, why had Mar made such a big
deal out of Kurisumasu anyway? Her big mouth had started all this crap!
An early evening now seemed quite out of the question. Oh well just grin
and bear it." She thought to herself. The door to Kei's suite opened and
a vision in sky aoishi emerged. Marlene had bound a complementing
headband in light azure sround her blonde locks. It went with her light
aoishi gown perfectly. She also wore elbow length matching opera gloves.
Her stockings and heels were also the same tint along with her small
evening bag which she clutched in her right hand. The two trainees
greeted each other while appraising each other's attire. "Kome, you look
stunning! I hope that you're feeling a little better." Said Marlene.
"Arigato Mar, you're radiant! But why the bag? Faye's the only other
female on board who's got one." Replied Kome. Marlene smiled. "I was told
that ladies always have to carry a purse. I realize that in our
profession it's impractical. However, on special occasions I see no
reason to break with dentos (tradition)." She explained. "Well, let's get
it over with Mar." groaned Kome, hopping onto the turbolift. Marlene
followed her and soon they were in the 'parlor'. Yuri 2 was wearing
yellow, both Keis were in red, Leila wore black, Zoe had chosen violet
and Faye had opted for lilac. Try as they might no gown could be found
small enough for the children so they were in their old reliable
schoolgirl uniforms. Kagome had lent one to both Rin and Ed. Most of the
men had opted for dark suits with dark ties except for the Doctors who
were apparently playing 'I can dress weirder than you' with each other.
Doctor 2 had gone with the look of the 1860's wearing a black frock coat
and white cravat along with a vest and pin-striped morning trousers in
grey. Doctor 4 had chosen for the occasion a black tuxedo with white bow
tie, a high topped evening hat, gloves and a cane! Kei 1 had absolutely
put her foot down when Yuri 1 had suggested dressing up the Mugghis.
"Nai, no Fing way, you airhead! This is MY ship and I make the rules,
got it!" Kei 1 had stormed at her. Yuri 1 had meekly acquiesced to her
demands. Ed was circulating around the room with a tray of drinks. Kei 1
had warned Don Poporo in no uncertain terms oro she would do to him if he
passed out tonight! She then struck a small gong and announced dinner.
They all trooped into the storage area adjoining the rec room which had
been converted into a dining hall. After a sumptious feast (Inu Yasha had
for once not started a food fight!) they had all returned to the
'parlor'.
The first item on Yuri 1's agenda was finishing up the tree. She and Zoe
had each replicated an illuminated enjeru (angel) for the top. Zoe's
resembled Marlene while Yuri's was patterned after Kome. They handed them
out to the two trainees who insisted that Kei 1 must place them on the
tree's topmost branch. Kei 1 did so, wiping a tear from her lovely green
aizu. "Crying Kei?" asked Yuri 1 with an impish grin. " 'Course not! Just
got a little pine dust in my aizu was all!" insisted Kei 1 gruffly. Next
up was 'Caroling Along with Yuri' which lasted out the rest of the first
two hours. Quietly, the two 'cowboys' and Han Solo had left to relieve
the guard team of Legato, Spike Miroku and Jamie. (Since the security
guard chief was already in a dark suit and since Jamie absolutely refused
to remove his kilt and replace it with 'breeks or bleeks' as he called
trousers, the only one who had to change was Legato. He did so quickly
and accompanied the other two to the parlor). After a hasty dinner and a
very boring session of listening to the Doctors' renderings of 'A Visit
from Seija (Saint) Nicholas' and 'A Kurisumasu Carol', it was game time.
Legato and Spike Miroku supervised at 'Trivial Pursuit', 'Charades',
'Hide the Slipper' and 'Murder'.
After that they all exchanged gifts (that is to say that Yuri 1 played
'Old Seija Nick' and handed out the presents which she had secretly
replicated) until the chromo struck the hour of eleven. Then Kei 1
reluctantly arose and announced that it was time to call it a night. "My
flight crew has to be up at shi (four) AM ashita (tomorrow) morning to
steer us a clear path through the 'Jonnz Jonnz' asteroid belt and I need
all of them bright aizu'd and bushy tailed so I'm afraid it's lights out
for them I'm afraid. But before they go, a toast. Meri Kurisumasu and
good wishes to all of you and to all a good night." They touched glasses
with each other and drank. Faye gently lifted Ed who had fallen fast
asleep on the floor and had been using her favorite pillow (Ein) as a
headrest. They all exchanged good nights and toddled off to bed. After
assuring Kei 1 that all was well the watch group on the brig was taking
turns catnapping. Kei 1 went back to her room and changed back into
sweats and jogging shoes before returning to the bridge. She had already
dismissed and sent to bed an exhausted Yuri and two beaming trainees.
Now that she had the time to put her feet up and relax, she decided to
finish reading that holonovel of Marlene's about the old miser (Scrooge).
Then she remembered oro had happened the last time she'd read the
shimatta thing at night! "I can't stand to have another one of those
shimatta nightmares!" she thought. Instead of that she decided to read
some fanfiction off the intergalactic net. After alternating between
reading and dozing off for about an hour or so, Kei 1 drifted into a deep
slumber and began to dream!(Hoist the storm warnings guys!!)!
END OF CHAPTER 25. Chapter 26 "Kei's Troubled Nights II" or "Have You
Seen Our Trainees?"
Will follow soon. Ja Mata.